How To Write a Request Letter

A request is a letter asking the recipient to do something he or she does not have to do, may not have time to do, or may not want to do. Therefore, pay particular attention to the structure given for each letter; these are time-tested formulas for persuasive writing that have been proven to work.

A letter is an ideal medium for requesting a favor. Making the request in writing allows the other person to think it over in the privacy of her own home or office, without the pressure of you standing there waiting for an answer, or the potential for embarrassment (for both of you) if you are turned down.

Tips for Requesting a Favor
• Ask politely. Do not demand or threaten.

• Show the reader what’s in it for her. Prove your case.

• Say exactly what you hope she will do for you.

Sample Request Letter

Ms. Helen Cornell, CAE, CMP
Executive Director
CFCE Education Foundation
Senior Vice President, Education
CFCE
1300 East Eight Mile, Suite 110
Pontiac, MI 43320

Dear Helen:

I’m the author of Last Minute Meetings, a book I hope you’ll consider for possible inclusion in your catalog and offerings. Last Minute Meetings provides numerous up-to-date resources and ideas to help plan a meeting — quickly, if need be, and on budget.

This book would be an excellent fit with your current offerings. For people new to the industry, it explains in simple language the details involved in planning a successful event — giving lots of real-life examples and forms. Industry veterans can use the book as a resource guide to find vendors as well as definitive “best sources”.

I have enclosed a review copy. Last Minute Meetings is published by Career Press (Franklin Lakes, NJ; December 2000) and retails for $11.99. I’ve included a few recent book reviews as well as a brief bio.

I look forward to the possibility of working together to bring this book into your offering. Regards.

Fern Dickey, CMP

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